ITINERARY

Day 1 / Arrival and introduction to the region’s lesser-known history

Guests will meet at the Foix train station at 11:00 AM. Following a picnic lunch, the group visits the impressive Aguilar Castle to get an introduction to the region’s history. The breathtaking panoramic view from atop Aguilar sets the stage for the next day’s hiking adventure. 

Included / Lodging, picnic lunch, dinner, entry to castle 
Lodging / Hostellerie du Vieux Moulin
Pickup Time / 11 AM
Pickup Location / Foix train station

Day 2 / Hike the historic Cathar pathway from Château d’Aguilar to Château de Peyrepertuse

Departing from the vineyard-clad hills of Château d’Aguilar, hike through the arid, sun-drenched plains of the Corbières region, dotted with wild herbs like thyme and rosemary.  

Ascending, the path weaves through Mediterranean scrubland and sparse forests, revealing dramatic views of the high Pyrenees in the distance. Approaching Peyrepertuse Castle, perched high on a limestone ridge, the trail continues with gentle undulation. The cliffside fortress, known as the "Celestial Citadel," dominates the skyline, offering incredible vistas over the rugged terrain and a sense of awe at the Cathars' choice of such a commanding, strategic location. 

Profile of the Route / DISTANCE 20 km/12.5 mi | ASCENT 486 m/1,594 ft | DESCENT 395 m/1,296 ft | MAX ELEVATION 366 m/1,200 ft | TIME 6 hours

Included / Lodging, breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner, entry to castle
Lodging / Hostellerie du Vieux Moulin

Day 3 / Experience history with a tour of Château de Quéribus and Cucugnan Village with a Medieval scholar 

Begin the day by visiting Quéribus Castle, a masterpiece of medieval engineering. Explore its labyrinth of stone corridors and chambers while reflecting on the lives of those who once sought refuge in its impressive vertical walls and incredible mountaintop position. Quéribus symbolizes resistance against religious persecution, giving visitors a profound sense of the area's tumultuous past.

Nestled in the rolling hills below the castle, Cucugnan is a perfect place to visit for lunch. A picturesque village with narrow streets, stone houses, and a windmill, it offers visitors a chance to experience traditional French village life and the taste of freshly ground flour baked into delicious treats.  

Included / Lodging, breakfast, dinner, castle visit
Lodging / Hostellerie du Vieux Moulin

Day 4 / See the pure beauty of the region with a hike into the Gorge de Galamus

The day’s adventure begins with a gentle ascent through vineyards and valleys to walk directly under the impressive Peyrepertuse Castle rising from the cliff face. We will then embark across the plateau, with stunning views of the valley, before descending through the majestic and mystical Gorge de Galamus. The Gorge de Galamus is a breathtaking natural site carved by water for millions of years. With crystal clear waters running through the gorge, walking the road built in 1890 will leave you with an unforgettable experience. There will be time to explore the ancient hermitage built into the side of the cliff. Even the best photographs can’t do it justice! 

Profile of the Route / DISTANCE 12 km/6=7,5 mi | ASCENT 600 m/1,986 ft | DESCENT 610 m/2,000 ft | MAX ELEVATION 681 m/2,235 ft | TIME 4 hours

Included / Breakfast, dinner, castle visit
Lodging / Hostellerie du Grand Duc

Day 5 / Feel the passion of the region with a tour of local artisans

Visit a local artisan knife maker and learn about the process of creating unique and beautifully hand-made knives. Then, walk through the ancient Gorge de Saint Jaume to experience the blue-green waters and otherworldly ambiance.  

Enjoy a wine tasting in the early evening and chat with the owners to learn more about the different grapes and techniques used to produce wine in this unique region. The day closes with a memorable dinner at the Grand Duc.  

Included / Breakfast, wine tasting, dinner
Lodging / Hostellerie du Grand Duc

Day 6 / The final exhilarating hike on the hidden Cathar pathway

The hike from Axat to Puilaurens Castle is a scenic journey through the rugged foothills of the Pyrenees. Starting in Axat, the trail winds along lush forests and the Aude River, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Ascending, the terrain becomes more dramatic, with occasional open vistas showcasing the region's rolling hills and deep valleys. 

The path is dotted with wildflowers and small streams, gradually leading to the imposing Château de Puilaurens, perched on a steep rocky outcrop. Known as one of the "Five Sons of Carcassonne," this well-preserved Cathar fortress rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding landscape, making the climb well worth it. 

Profile of the Route / DISTANCE 9 km/5.5 mi | ASCENT 550 m/1,805 ft | DESCENT 321 m/1,053 ft | MAX ELEVATION 692 m/2,270 ft | TIME 4 hours

Included / Lodging, breakfast, entry to castle, dinner
Lodging / Hostellerie du Grand Duc

Day 7 / Review the living history of the region and return to the departure location

After breakfast, travel back to Foix where there is an option to visit the castle, shop, or enjoy lunch at one of the many cafés or restaurants.  

Included / Breakfast, castle visit
Drop off time / 3 PM local time
Drop off location / Foix train station